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Inter-school Judges’ remarks by Carol-Faye Bynoe-George and Angela Ephraim (Head Judges)
The 2026 Inter-school Garden Competition Adjudication Panel consisted of representatives the Ministry of Agriculture (Carol-Faye Bynoe-George, Efuru Elihu, Jahmol Colbourne, Emerald David, Tyreke Horsford, and Bernella Vidal) and Angela Ephraim from the Gilbert Agricultural and Rural Development Center.
Were honoured to have been able to serve as judges in this year’s Inter-school Garden Competition hosted by the Ministry of Education.
In order to expedite the adjudication, process we were divided into two groups because of the number of participating schools.
We found that the quality of this year’s Competition was of a high standard and very competitive, it was greatly improved from last year. The judges were also pleased to see additional schools participating.
The Preschools in particular have dramatically improved. We, the judges, have had the opportunity to chat with students at each school.
We have learnt that the preschoolers not only watch and assist their teachers, but many were well aware of the processes and could explain and demonstrate procedures.
They also knew the names of the plants and in some cases their uses.
Special mention must be made to the Hundred Acres and Beehive Preschool(newcomers), the winners Beginners Academy 1st Place, Sir Luther Wynter 2nd Place and Eleven Hours Sunshine Preschool 3rd Place.
Our Primary Schools have really elevated their performance to a higher level of excellence, with mere points separating the first, second and third place winners.
In this category Cedar Grove Primary 1st Place, Old Road Primary 2nd Place and S R Olivia David (formerly Bolans Primary) 3rd Place were the winners.
Special mention must be made of the Buckleys Primary School, Liberta Primary School and Cobbs Cross Primary School, both newcomers with an impressive start.
Notably, there has been an increase in the number of Hydroponic units at our Secondary schools as part of their Agri-science Programmes.
That is growing plants in water (not soil) which saves water; protects the environment; and helps plants grow even when the climate changes.
The practical introduction of Climate Smart Agriculture techniques has widened the knowledge and scope of the students beyond traditional methods of farming.
In this category the winners were the Ottos Comprehensive School (the pioneering school of the Agricultural Science on the island) 1st Place and Overall Winner, Jennings Secondary (Second school to introduce the Agricultural Science) 2nd Place and the Sir Novelle Richards Academy 3rd Place.
Special mention must be made of the Antigua Girls High School (newcomer).
Judges’ Recommendations: We would like to see more use of irrigation drip lines and increased use of mulch as soil cover, as well as, the use of natural fertilizers, to enrich the soil and promote healthy plant growth, to include Grasses; Animal Manure; and Compost with food scraps.
Also, some schools need to improve their Record Keeping, either in a book or electronically.
The judges need to see when you prepared the land, if you had expenses, like purchasing seeds, etc. if you fertilized the soil prior to planting.
When you planted your crops and you intend to harvest; your expected yield; if you plan to sell or donate your produce.
If selling, your expected revenue… Of course, the students need to be a part of this process.
They are our future entrepreneurs.
This year’s adjudication exercise was one of the hardest because of the tremendous improvement overall and we implore the students and educators to continue to strive for excellency.
It really was our pleasure to see the growing interest in agriculture at the school level.
This focus on the importance of agricultural education, and youth involvement across our twin-island state is truly commendable. We wish to praise you for a job well done.
You are all winners.
Keep up the good work, keep improving and Cultivating the Future. “Grow your Greatness.”
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What a way to promote healthy living. I’m impressed by the schools involvement.